Capellini with tomatoes (pasta with tomatoes)

Capellini al Pomodoro Recipe (Pasta with Tomatoes)

Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 15 minutes
Total time: 25 minutes
Servings: 4

Capellini al Pomodoro is a simple yet flavorful dish, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or to impress guests. These thin pasta strands, combined with fresh tomatoes and delicate flavors, transform a staple ingredient into a true feast. Let's get started!

Ingredients:
- 400 g capellini (thin pasta)
- 500 g Roma tomatoes or cherry tomatoes
- 4 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, finely chopped
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- A bunch of fresh basil
- Grated Parmigiano-Reggiano (optional)

Step-by-step instructions:

1. Boil water: In a large pot, add water and 2 tablespoons of salt and bring to a boil. Salt is essential for flavoring the pasta, so don't skip it.

2. Prepare the tomatoes: Wash the tomatoes well and cut them into quarters. If using cherry tomatoes, you can leave them whole, but make sure they are ripe and juicy.

3. Cook the pasta: When the water is boiling, add the capellini and cook according to the package instructions, usually between 3-5 minutes, until al dente. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

4. Cook the sauce: In a large skillet, heat 4 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes, until golden. Be careful not to burn it, as burnt garlic can give the sauce a bitter taste.

5. Add the tomatoes: Once the garlic is ready, add the chopped tomatoes to the skillet, stir well, and let simmer for 5-7 minutes, until the tomatoes break down and release their juice. At this point, add salt and pepper to taste.

6. Combine pasta with sauce: When the capellini are ready, drain them, but reserve a bit of the cooking water. Add the pasta to the skillet directly over the tomato sauce and gently toss. If the sauce is too thick, add a tablespoon of the cooking water to thin it out.

7. Finish the dish: Tear fresh basil leaves and add them to the skillet. Stir everything to combine the flavors.

8. Serving: Divide the pasta onto plates and, if desired, sprinkle grated Parmigiano-Reggiano on top. A drizzle of extra virgin olive oil on top can further enhance the flavor.

Practical tips:
- Choose seasonal tomatoes – they are sweeter and juicier, providing better flavor to the sauce.
- Experiment with different types of pasta, such as spaghetti or linguine, to vary the dish's texture.
- If you want to add a spicy note, sprinkle some crushed red pepper into the sauce.

Possible variations:
For a vegetarian version, add vegetables such as zucchini or bell peppers, sautéed alongside the garlic. You can also turn this dish into a delicious main course by adding shrimp or grilled chicken.

Capellini al Pomodoro is a simple yet extremely tasty recipe that will bring a touch of sunshine to your table. Enjoy every bite and let the Mediterranean flavors transport you!